The South African National Parks (SANParks) is calling on aspiring youth entering their first year of study in 2026 to apply for its External Bursary Programme.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 18 August 2025
Bursary Location: South Africa (nationwide – neighbouring SANParks communities.
What is the SANParks External Bursary?
SANParks’ mission extends beyond biodiversity conservation — it includes growing community support and benefit-sharing. This bursary programme is part of that mission, aiming to provide access to higher education opportunities for South African youth from park-adjacent communities.
The bursary covers full-time studies at public universities, TVET colleges, and universities of technology across South Africa.
Fields of Study Covered
Eligible applicants must be pursuing a qualification in one of the following areas:
Environmental Sciences
- Nature Conservation
- Environmental Management
- Green Energy
- Environmental Engineering
- Sustainable Development
- Game Ranch Management
Tourism
- Hospitality Management
- Resort Management
- Tour Guiding
- Events and Conference Management
Social Sciences
- Community Development
- Economic Development
- Socio-Economic Development
- Development Studies and related fields
Who Can Apply?
To be considered for the SANParks bursary, you must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be between the ages of 18–35
- Be residing in communities neighbouring a national park (as per SANParks management plans)
- Be entering your first year of undergraduate or TVET study in 2026
- Have applied and been accepted at a registered and accredited South African public institution
- For currently enrolled students: you must have a 100% pass rate for all registered modules
Note: Preference will be given to women, persons with disabilities, and members of designated groups.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit:
- A motivation letter explaining your need for the bursary and your chosen field of study
- Comprehensive, updated CV
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified latest academic record
- Letter of acceptance from an accredited higher education institution
- Proof of residential address
- Affidavit confirming household income if applicable (especially for grant recipients)
How to Apply
Submit all applications and documents via email to:
happy.nhlangwini@sanparks.org
For enquiries, contact:
012 426 5173
happy.nhlangwini@sanparks.org
Final Reminder
The SANParks External Bursary Programme 2026 is more than just financial aid — it’s an opportunity to uplift communities, empower young leaders, and create future champions in conservation, tourism, and development.
Apply by 18 August 2025 to be considered.